Risk Russia: Patrick Schöbel's arrest and new travel warnings

Risk Russia: Patrick Schöbel's arrest and new travel warnings

arbitrary arrests in Russia: consequences for German citizens

The travel plans of many Germans are increasingly influenced by the unstable situation in Russia. Recent incidents, such as the arrest of Patrick Schöbel in Hamburg, draw attention to the dangers that go hand in hand with a trip to the Russian Federation. In order to avoid future risks, the Federal Foreign Office is now expressly advising travel there.

The story of Patrick Schöbel

Patrick Schöbel was arrested in St. Petersburg in January after carrying cannabis gum lovers. He had the intention to do this in order to be able to sleep better during his flight. He wanted to visit his Russian girlfriend he had met on the Internet. Schöbel experienced the considerable risks associated with entry to Russia.

risks for Germans when traveling to Russia

The Federal Foreign Office has made it clear in its warnings that German citizens are exposed to acute risks in the Russian Federation. The possible arbitrary arrests that can also affect German-Russian double states are particularly worrying. Overall, security in Russia is significantly impaired for foreign nationals.

Entry overview: difficulty and warnings

The journey to Russia is by no means uncomplicated. The direct air traffic between the EU and Russia was largely discontinued due to the Ukraine conflict. If you still want to travel, you often have to fly over international hubs such as Turkey. In addition, Finland has closed all border crossings, while Estonia and Latvia only offer limited options for entry into road traffic.

dating apps and their risks

An alarm sign is also contacts via dating apps like Tinder and Hine. The Federal Foreign Office warns of possible false motifs that could be behind new acquaintances. Caution should be exercised, especially in times of political tensions, when Germans decide on personal meetings with unknown people in Russia.

protection of your own security

For Germans who have close family ties in Russia, special precautions apply. The stay in Russia can be risky for German-Russian dual-Stater, since they may only be regarded by Russian authorities as a Russian citizen. This can have consequences, especially in the event of a possible convocation into the Russian armed forces.

conclusion: The situation for trips to Russia

Overall, the situation for German nationals is critical. Whether for romantic, family or tourist reasons: the Federal Foreign Office strongly recommends that travel to Russia are refraining from traveling. The urgent warning illustrates the high risk associated with entry and the possible loss of personal security.

- Nag